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Romans 14:4
Verse
Context
The Law of Liberty
3The one who eats everything must not belittle the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted him.4Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? - Who has ever given thee the right to condemn the servant of another man, in things pertaining to his own master? To his own master he standeth or falleth. He is to judge him, not thou; thy intermeddling in this business is both rash and uncharitable. Yea, he shall be holden up - He is sincere and upright, and God, who is able to make him stand, will uphold him; and so teach him that he shall not essentially err. And it is the will of God that such upright though scrupulous persons should be continued members of his Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who art thou that judges another man's--rather, "another's" servant?--that is, CHRIST'S, as the whole context shows, especially Rom 14:8-9. Yea, &c.--"But he shall be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand"; that is, to make good his standing, not at the day of judgment, of which the apostle treats in Rom 14:10, but in the true fellowship of the Church here, in spite of thy censures.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who art thou that judgest another man's servant,.... This is another reason, dissuading from censoriousness and rash judgment, taken from civil things; one man has nothing to do with another man's servant; he has no power over him, nor any right to call him to an account for his actions; nor has he any business to censure or condemn him for them, or concern himself about them: so the believer supposed to be judged, does not belong to him that takes upon him to judge and condemn him; he is another's servant, he is the servant of God: he is chosen by God the Father for his service, as well as unto salvation; he is bought with the price of Christ's blood, and therefore not his own, nor another's, but Christ's, he is bought with his money; and he is also born in his house, the church; the Spirit of God in regeneration forms him for himself, for righteousness and holiness; under the influence of whose grace he voluntarily gives up himself to the service of God, and is assisted by him to keep his statutes and do them; and what has another to do with him? what power has he over him, or right to judge him? to his own master he standeth or falleth, the meaning of which is, either if he "stands", that is, if he serves his Lord and master, of which "standing" is expressive; and continues in the service of him, whose servant he professes to be; this is to his master's advantage and profit, and not to another's: and if he "falls", that is, from his obedience to him, as such who profess to be the servants of God may; they may fall off from the doctrine of grace they have embraced; and that either totally and finally, as such do who never felt the power of it in their hearts; or partially, from some degree of steadfastness in the faith: and such also may fall from a lively exercise of the graces of faith, hope, and love, and into great sins, which is to their master's dishonour, and cause his ways and truths to be evil spoken of; and so it is to their own master they fail: or else the sense is, to their own master they are accountable, whether they stand or fall, serve or disobey him; and it is according to his judgment and not another's, that they "stand", or are and will be justified and acquitted, and will hear, well done, good and faithful servant; and according to the same they will "fall", or be condemned, and hear, take the slothful and unprofitable servant, and cast him into outer darkness: so the words "standing" and "failing" are used by the Jews in a forensic sense, for carrying or losing a cause, for justification or condemnation in a court of judicature, and particularly in the last judgment: and so they explain Psa 1:5, "the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment": the Targum paraphrases it, "the wicked shall not be justified in the great day;'' and Jarchi upon the place says, there shall be no , "standing of the foot" of the wicked, in the day of judgment; see Luk 21:36. Yea, ye shall be holden up; which words seem to be a sort of correction of the apostle's, as if he should say, why do I talk of falling, one that is a true servant of the Lord's shall not fall, at least not totally and finally, nor in the last judgment; for he is holden by the right hand of God, by the right hand of his righteousness, and is kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation: for God is able to make him stand; and will make him stand: words of power oftentimes include willingness as well as ability; see Jdg 5:24. God will make such to persevere to the end, because he has loved them with an everlasting love, chosen them in Christ, made a covenant with them in him, and has put them into his hands, and made them his care and charge; Christ has redeemed them by his blood, now intercedes, and is making preparations for them in heaven; they are united to him, and are built on him, the sure foundation; and the Spirit of God has begun that good work, which shall be performed. God will make such to stand in judgment with intrepidity, and without shame, being clothed with the righteousness of his Son; and shall therefore have the crown of righteousness given them, and an abundant entrance administered into his kingdom and glory: hence they ought not to be judged by man's judgment, nor need they regard it. The Alexandrian copy reads, "the Lord is able", &c.
Romans 14:4
The Law of Liberty
3The one who eats everything must not belittle the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted him.4Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews - Part 37): Faith Is a Pertubing Thing
By A.W. Tozer4.8K25:44ExpositionalEXO 2:11EXO 2:23MAT 6:33ROM 11:33ROM 14:4HEB 11:24HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about a moral rebound. He talks about his own past of indulging in drinking and reckless behavior, even on Christmas Eve. However, after a spiritual awakening and the guidance of the Holy Ghost, he realized the error of his ways and turned his life around. The preacher emphasizes that sometimes people become better because of the depth of their sins, comparing it to a rubber band that bounces back stronger the further it is stretched. He also highlights the importance of spiritual awakening, as many people go through life without ever experiencing it. The preacher encourages listeners to be aware of the deceit and corruption in the world and to seek a deeper connection with God.
The Heavenly Race
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K51:29JOB 19:25ECC 9:10ROM 14:41CO 9:24PHP 3:13HEB 4:11HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of running the heavenly race and obtaining the ultimate prize of eternal life in heaven. He compares the race to a life-or-death situation, where the stakes are high and the urgency to run is paramount. The preacher urges the listeners to start well, stay on course, and never stop or turn aside. He reminds them of the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ, who calls them to press forward and receive the crown of life that awaits those who love his appearing.
Social Relationships
By Stephen Olford1.7K1:03:46GEN 2:18GEN 2:24MAT 19:4ROM 8:9ROM 14:41CO 6:181TH 4:3In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of social relationships, particularly focusing on the challenges and complexities of sex relationships. The speaker emphasizes the importance of sanctification and honor in Christian and social relationships. He highlights three characteristics of friendship that should be considered: understanding, possessiveness, and overreaching. The speaker warns against exceeding the laws of chastity and holiness, sharing a distressing example of immorality in a Christian school. He urges young people to heed God's word and avoid behavior that will lead to judgment.
Keeping Yourself or Being Kept?
By Chuck Smith1.7K26:30ROM 5:8ROM 14:4EPH 3:20JUD 1:1This sermon delves into the book of Jude, focusing on the themes of being sanctified and preserved in Jesus Christ, the importance of keeping oneself in the love of God, and the contrast between the teachings of Buddha and Jesus Christ. It emphasizes God's part in preserving us and our part in responding to His promises through faith. The message highlights the need to accept God's love graciously and to position ourselves to receive His blessings.
(Proverbs) ch.30:9 - 31:31
By Zac Poonen1.4K1:00:49PRO 30:21PRO 31:19MAT 6:33ROM 14:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses various types of people who receive what they don't deserve. He emphasizes the importance of remaining humble and not forgetting one's past condition when experiencing God's goodness. The speaker then contrasts these undeserving individuals with four small but remarkable creatures, such as ants and badgers, who exhibit wisdom and resourcefulness. The sermon also touches on the manifestation of pride in a person's appearance and warns against taking advantage of those who are weaker.
What Is Prayer to You
By Bill McLeod1.2K45:30Prayer LifeROM 14:4EPH 6:13EPH 6:16JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the four sore judgments of God as mentioned in the book of Jeremiah. These judgments include war, famine, pestilence (disease), and wild beasts of the earth. The speaker gives examples of recent incidents involving bears, crocodiles, and cougars attacking humans, suggesting that these could be manifestations of God's judgment. The sermon emphasizes the importance of watching and waiting on the Lord, as well as the power of fervent prayer. The speaker encourages Christians to not judge others and to always labor fervently in prayer for one another.
The Sin of Pride, Nimrod
By Shane Idleman1857:42PrideHumilityGEN 11:4PSA 10:4PRO 16:18ISA 22:12MAT 6:1ROM 14:41CO 10:12PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5Shane Idleman emphasizes the destructive nature of pride, identifying it as the root cause of many personal and relational issues, including conflicts in marriages and workplaces. He uses the biblical figure Nimrod as an example of prideful rebellion against God, leading to the construction of the Tower of Babel, which ultimately resulted in confusion and division among people. Idleman warns that pride leads to foolish decisions and self-exaltation, urging listeners to embrace humility and recognize their dependence on God. He highlights the importance of weeping, working, and worshiping as means to combat pride and cultivate a humble spirit. The sermon concludes with a call to action for individuals to confront their pride and seek God's grace.
Rev. 3:16. the Charity of the Lord Jesus
By Horatius Bonar0LukewarmnessFaith and CommitmentISA 42:3MAT 10:32MAT 12:30MRK 9:40LUK 9:62ROM 14:41CO 10:212TI 1:7JAS 4:4REV 3:16Horatius Bonar emphasizes the grave danger of spiritual lukewarmness in his sermon on Revelation 3:16, warning that being neither cold nor hot is an abomination to Christ. He contrasts the indecisive with those who are genuinely for Christ, highlighting that even the timid and weak in faith are accepted by Him. Bonar encourages believers to be vigilant in their spiritual temperature, urging them to avoid complacency and to recognize that even small acts of faith are valued by the Lord. He reassures the faint-hearted that Christ's charity extends to all who do not openly oppose Him, offering hope and encouragement to those struggling with their faith. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a passionate commitment to Christ, warning against the dangers of a diluted faith.
The Danger of Misplaced Commitment
By A.W. Tozer0Faith in ChristAuthority of ScriptureMAT 16:18JHN 14:6ACT 17:11ROM 14:41CO 12:27GAL 1:10EPH 4:15COL 2:81TH 5:21HEB 12:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true faith in Jesus should not be confused with commitment to a church or denomination. He advocates for a personal and direct relationship with Christ, urging believers to critically evaluate the teachings they receive from church leaders rather than accepting them blindly. Tozer encourages Christians to prioritize their faith in Jesus above all else, while still valuing the local church as a community of believers. He stresses the importance of using the Bible as the ultimate guide for faith and practice, rather than solely relying on church authority. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a commitment that is solely directed towards Christ.
The Visible Church, Letter Iv
By J.H. Newman01SA 16:7ISA 55:8MAT 7:1ROM 14:4EPH 4:4J.H. Newman addresses the misconception that advocating for the doctrine of the Church Catholic and Apostolic excludes Dissenters from salvation. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the piety and faithfulness found among individuals in various sects, cautioning against hasty judgments based on labels. Newman challenges the notion of easily categorizing people's beliefs and highlights the need to acknowledge the diversity within the Christian family. He encourages a deeper understanding of God's mercy and the different ways in which Divine Providence may work in reconciling His favor among different groups. Newman concludes by emphasizing the importance of preaching the whole counsel of God fearlessly, trusting in the wisdom and sovereignty of Christ.
A Letter to a Magazine on the Subject of Dr. Pusey's Tract on Baptism
By J.H. Newman0ROM 14:41CO 8:21CO 13:91TI 1:51TI 6:4The Editor of the Magazine questions how clergymen reconcile their consciences with the Homilies calling Rome 'Antichrist,' while holding the doctrines of the Tracts. The response highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of the Homilies, recognizing that not every sentence must be subscribed to, but rather the general doctrine they convey. The discussion delves into the interpretation of the Homilies, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between opinions and persons in theological debates. The explanation provided aims to show that subscribing to the Homilies does not necessitate agreement with every statement, but rather with the overarching doctrine they present.
Homily 29 on Romans
By St. John Chrysostom0JHN 10:11ROM 1:8ROM 11:13ROM 12:16ROM 14:4ROM 15:141CO 11:2GAL 5:10HEB 6:9John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of being full of goodness, knowledge, and the ability to admonish one another, highlighting the need to avoid conceit and judgment towards others. He emphasizes the kindness and persuasion in his words, showing a balance of boldness and gentleness in his approach. Chrysostom humbly acknowledges the grace given to him by God to minister to the Gentiles, focusing on preaching the Gospel and making the souls of those taught acceptable in the Holy Spirit. He expresses his desire to preach the Gospel where Christ was not named, demonstrating his selfless dedication to fulfilling his priestly duty and loving the salvation of others.
Who Are You to Judge Others?
By Shane Idleman0PRO 27:17MAT 7:1JHN 7:24ROM 14:41CO 2:151CO 12:4GAL 6:1EPH 4:11JAS 4:11Shane Idleman addresses the common misrepresentation of the Bible verse 'Judge not, that you be not judged' by highlighting the importance of understanding the true context and meaning of judging in Scripture. He emphasizes the need to discern between personal opinions and scriptural truths, urging believers to apply the entirety of God's Word rather than picking and choosing. Idleman explains the difference between judging as a judge in a court of law and judging according to God's principles, emphasizing the responsibility to call into question behaviors that contradict God's standards. He also discusses the diversity of gifts within the church and the importance of respecting different callings, whether it involves confronting sin or showing love and compassion.
Doesn't the Bible Say Judge Not?
By Shane Idleman0MAT 7:1JHN 7:24ROM 14:41CO 2:15Shane Idleman addresses the common misrepresentation of the Bible verse 'Judge not' from Matthew 7:1, emphasizing the importance of understanding the true meaning of 'judging' within the context of Scripture. He highlights the need for Christians to discern and judge behaviors that contradict God's principles, while also stressing the importance of respecting diverse gifts within the church and the different callings individuals may have. Idleman encourages speaking the truth in love, confronting sin with compassion, and exercising grace without compromising on biblical truths.
The Penknife, the Sack and the Egg
By H. P. Barker0PSA 55:22ROM 14:42CO 12:9JAS 1:21PE 1:5H. P. Barker preaches on the assurance that believers are kept by the power of God, emphasizing the need to trust in God's strength to uphold us in times of temptation and weakness. He highlights the importance of faith as the means through which God sustains us, drawing parallels to a miller filling a sack with flour to make it stand. Barker also discusses how God uses trials and adversity to strengthen and support us, likening it to making an egg stand on its end by creating a dent through a hard knock.
Do Not Bear Proper Fruits
By Harmon A. Baldwin0PRO 16:2MAT 7:16MAT 7:20ROM 14:41CO 4:5GAL 6:4JAS 2:171PE 1:221JN 1:71JN 3:18Harmon A. Baldwin addresses the objection that many professors of holiness do not bear the fruits of holiness, comparing it to the fallacy of assuming all people speak English or German just because those encountered do. He explains that some who claim holiness may lack proper evidence due to misunderstanding, lack of knowledge, or over-conscientiousness, leading to a deficiency in bearing fruits. Baldwin also highlights that some may be cleansed but mistaken in requirements, emphasizing that God purifies motives and allows room for growth in grace. Additionally, he points out the error in expecting more from holiness professing individuals than God does and acknowledges the presence of hypocrites within the holiness profession.
Famish the Busie Minds
By George Fox0PRO 3:5JHN 8:12ROM 14:41CO 12:4GAL 5:25George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in the Light that never changes, being convinced and turned from darkness to know the movings of the Spirit of Life within, which works against death and brings freedom. He emphasizes the need to be diligent, quick, and lively in walking in the Life that redeems and overcomes, leading to rest. Fox also advises against judging others, encouraging each individual to focus on their own spiritual journey to foster peace and unity, recognizing the diversity of gifts but the unity in the Spirit that guides.
Somewhat Spoken to a Weighty Question Concerning the Magistrate's Protection of the Innocent
By Isaac Penington0PSA 46:10ISA 2:4HOS 2:18MAT 5:9ROM 14:4HEB 10:30REV 17:14REV 19:11Isaac Penington preaches about the importance of righteousness, peace, and the defense of the innocent by magistrates, emphasizing the need for nations to embrace a state of peace and righteousness in the latter days. He discusses the role of the magistrate in protecting those who are peaceable and unable to fight, highlighting the need for a shift from fighting to meekness and peaceableness. Penington also addresses the desire of the Quakers for universal liberty in worship, the need for just laws based on equity and righteousness, and the importance of avoiding enmity and opposition in government. He encourages those who have felt the power of God's endless life to trust in the Lord's strength and righteousness, urging them to wait for the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His kingdom on earth.
The Freedom of Simple Christians
By Robert H. Boll0ISA 29:13ROM 14:4ROM 16:171CO 1:101CO 8:9GAL 5:1EPH 4:32TI 2:151PE 4:10Robert H. Boll addresses the importance of being simply Christians, distinct from sectarian bodies, by belonging solely to the New Testament church. He emphasizes that a true Christian is one who is wholly committed to Jesus Christ, accepting Him as Lord and Savior without divided loyalties to human authorities. The New Testament church consists of baptized believers who are free from human creeds, united by their faith in Christ and mutual love, responsible directly to the Lord for their actions, and committed to growing in unity through studying God's word together.
The Church I Found and How I Found It!
By Robert H. Boll0MAT 7:24MAT 23:8ROM 14:41CO 1:10GAL 5:1EPH 4:3COL 3:162TI 3:162PE 1:20Robert H. Boll shares his journey of becoming a Christian, emphasizing the struggle of surrendering deeply ingrained beliefs and teachings to embrace a simple, personal relationship with God. Through encounters with certain Christians and the study of scripture, he was led to understand the importance of personal responsibility before God and the need to rely solely on the word of God for guidance. Boll highlights the freedom and individual accountability of a Christian, rejecting the authority of human creeds and emphasizing unity based on the whole counsel of God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? - Who has ever given thee the right to condemn the servant of another man, in things pertaining to his own master? To his own master he standeth or falleth. He is to judge him, not thou; thy intermeddling in this business is both rash and uncharitable. Yea, he shall be holden up - He is sincere and upright, and God, who is able to make him stand, will uphold him; and so teach him that he shall not essentially err. And it is the will of God that such upright though scrupulous persons should be continued members of his Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Who art thou that judges another man's--rather, "another's" servant?--that is, CHRIST'S, as the whole context shows, especially Rom 14:8-9. Yea, &c.--"But he shall be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand"; that is, to make good his standing, not at the day of judgment, of which the apostle treats in Rom 14:10, but in the true fellowship of the Church here, in spite of thy censures.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Who art thou that judgest another man's servant,.... This is another reason, dissuading from censoriousness and rash judgment, taken from civil things; one man has nothing to do with another man's servant; he has no power over him, nor any right to call him to an account for his actions; nor has he any business to censure or condemn him for them, or concern himself about them: so the believer supposed to be judged, does not belong to him that takes upon him to judge and condemn him; he is another's servant, he is the servant of God: he is chosen by God the Father for his service, as well as unto salvation; he is bought with the price of Christ's blood, and therefore not his own, nor another's, but Christ's, he is bought with his money; and he is also born in his house, the church; the Spirit of God in regeneration forms him for himself, for righteousness and holiness; under the influence of whose grace he voluntarily gives up himself to the service of God, and is assisted by him to keep his statutes and do them; and what has another to do with him? what power has he over him, or right to judge him? to his own master he standeth or falleth, the meaning of which is, either if he "stands", that is, if he serves his Lord and master, of which "standing" is expressive; and continues in the service of him, whose servant he professes to be; this is to his master's advantage and profit, and not to another's: and if he "falls", that is, from his obedience to him, as such who profess to be the servants of God may; they may fall off from the doctrine of grace they have embraced; and that either totally and finally, as such do who never felt the power of it in their hearts; or partially, from some degree of steadfastness in the faith: and such also may fall from a lively exercise of the graces of faith, hope, and love, and into great sins, which is to their master's dishonour, and cause his ways and truths to be evil spoken of; and so it is to their own master they fail: or else the sense is, to their own master they are accountable, whether they stand or fall, serve or disobey him; and it is according to his judgment and not another's, that they "stand", or are and will be justified and acquitted, and will hear, well done, good and faithful servant; and according to the same they will "fall", or be condemned, and hear, take the slothful and unprofitable servant, and cast him into outer darkness: so the words "standing" and "failing" are used by the Jews in a forensic sense, for carrying or losing a cause, for justification or condemnation in a court of judicature, and particularly in the last judgment: and so they explain Psa 1:5, "the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment": the Targum paraphrases it, "the wicked shall not be justified in the great day;'' and Jarchi upon the place says, there shall be no , "standing of the foot" of the wicked, in the day of judgment; see Luk 21:36. Yea, ye shall be holden up; which words seem to be a sort of correction of the apostle's, as if he should say, why do I talk of falling, one that is a true servant of the Lord's shall not fall, at least not totally and finally, nor in the last judgment; for he is holden by the right hand of God, by the right hand of his righteousness, and is kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation: for God is able to make him stand; and will make him stand: words of power oftentimes include willingness as well as ability; see Jdg 5:24. God will make such to persevere to the end, because he has loved them with an everlasting love, chosen them in Christ, made a covenant with them in him, and has put them into his hands, and made them his care and charge; Christ has redeemed them by his blood, now intercedes, and is making preparations for them in heaven; they are united to him, and are built on him, the sure foundation; and the Spirit of God has begun that good work, which shall be performed. God will make such to stand in judgment with intrepidity, and without shame, being clothed with the righteousness of his Son; and shall therefore have the crown of righteousness given them, and an abundant entrance administered into his kingdom and glory: hence they ought not to be judged by man's judgment, nor need they regard it. The Alexandrian copy reads, "the Lord is able", &c.